10 of the Best Things to Eat and Drink in Savannah

Savannah serves as a hub of coastal Georgia's culinary scene, complete with nationally acclaimed chefs hailing from NYC, Chicago and locales a little closer to home.

One might expect to indulge on incredible Southern classics, like fried chicken and collard greens when eating their way through Savannah. However, you may be surprised to find that the city is also home to some delectable seafood, Italian and fine-dining restaurants that rival the top eateries in the United States.

Choosing the best options can be challenging, but this guide is here to assist. Prepare for a delightful culinary journey that promises to be as satisfying as a plate of classic biscuits and gravy. Here are some of our top picks of the best things to eat and drink, featuring many of the top restaurants in Savannah.

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Located just off East Victory Drive, Starland Cafe occupies the lower floor of a cozy restored historic home. This is the place to go for a casual brunch in a homey but elevated atmosphere. The paninis and salads showcase fresh, local ingredients and you can choose from either indoor or patio seating. Expect a wait of 30-40 minutes for your food, but if you have time to linger over tea or coffee while waiting for your meal, the wait will be well worth it.

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Though Bricco isn't technically in Savannah, if you venture about twenty minutes north toward Hilton Head Island, you'll find this hidden gem that's well worth a wander out of town. Bricco is a highly-rated Italian restaurant that goes above and beyond to deliver light, fresh Italian cuisine. You'll want a reservation if you hope to snag a seat. Plan plenty of time to savor every aspect of the meal, from cocktails to desserts. The quaint, old-world atmosphere welcomes you in, the service is spectacular and you'll find something on the menu for a range of tastes and dietary preferences.

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Just a block off of Savannah's River Street, The Olde Pink House stands sentry, ensuring that the genteel art of fine Southern cuisine doesn't disintegrate anytime soon. Expect white tablecloths and a Southern formal atmosphere. The warm, friendly service welcomes you in and inventive dishes put a twist on traditional Southern cuisine. Try the pecan-encrusted chicken, whole-fried flounder, or the fried chicken. The appetizers are well worth exploration, as well; from the fried cheddar sticks to the goat cheese artichoke fritters, it is impossible to go wrong. You might just find your new favorite cuisine at this spot, which is frequently ranked one of the top restaurants in Savannah (and one of the most romantic in the country) for very good reason. Reserve your table well in advance; it can be tricky to get seated otherwise.

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Garibaldi's is owned by the same folks as The Olde Pink House and they put the same attention to detail into every dining experience at this upscale Italian eatery. Garibaldi's occupies a former firehouse and it retains the building's historic atmosphere. Expect a variety of fine Italian dishes, many highlighting locally-caught seafood. Try the flounder, calamari and lamb ribs; all are fan favorites. If you're not a fan of seafood, the chicken parmigiana is also highly acclaimed. When it comes to a romantic atmosphere and an aura of old-world charm, it's hard to beat Garibaldi's.

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Lizzy's Burger Bar and Grill is a bustling riverfront eatery that's bursting with life whether you visit for lunch, dinner, or late-night drinks. If you’re looking for a burger stop with a full bar on hand, this is the spot to grab something to please everyone--kids included. Grab a margarita to go with your perfectly-chargrilled burger and piping hot fries and enjoy the fun, old-fashioned atmosphere of a casual Southern burger joint.

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If you're searching for an excellent brunch or dinner spot, Ardsley Station is an easy choice. This elegant bistro serves up American and Southern-style favorites and relax, sipping a glass of Malbec with friends over lunch. The wedge salad is excellent, as are the shrimp and grits. You'll find wings, burgers, truffle fries and chips and queso on the menu; all are fan favorites and are beautifully and thoughtfully served.

Courtesy of Visit Savannah

The mission of Common Thread is to deliver hyper-local produce to the table in the form of beautifully inventive dishes that surprise and delight the palate. Not your typical Southern restaurant, you'll find a huge variety of flavors and ethnic inspirations on the menu, which many agree includes some of the best food in Savannah. Because of the founder's commitment to sourcing only the best local produce, the menu changes frequently. Common Thread serves up a first class experience every time, though; it's an ideal date spot or upscale dining experience to top off your Savannah trip.

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A relatively new addition to Savannah's culinary scene, Shuk serves up casual Mediterranean food with flair. The house-made hummus, pita and whipped feta are favorites, as are the doner kebab and shawarma bowls. Every dish is hearty and satisfying but refreshingly light, unlike many of the very rich dishes served at other local establishments. You'll find a large selection of vegetarian dishes on the menu, as well. Expect a casual, bright environment that invites relaxing with friends and laughter. Shuk serves up a weekend brunch and offers live music on Thursday evenings, as well.

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Casual ambiance, an extensive wine list and small plates galore set Late Air apart from the crowd. This trendy restaurant features natural wines by the glass or by the bottle and a selection of small plates and aperitifs that delight the senses. The menu changes frequently depending on the season and dishes feature locally sourced produce and other specialties in addition to natural wines, many of which were new to the state of Georgia when Late Air brought them in.

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Located on the first floor of the stylish DeSoto hotel, 1540 Room provides a fine dining experience you won't soon forget. Chef Collin Clemons serves contemporary-Southern and globally inspired dishes designed to impress. From chicken and waffles to dishes like mushroom Bolognese and duck leg confit, you'll find something unexpectedly delightful to savor. The menu varies depending on the locally available ingredients, which are sourced fresh from small farms in the Georgia low country whenever possible. Expect beautifully plated dishes, stellar service and an elegant atmosphere that's perfect for dinner with friends or a memorable date night.

Of the dozens of restaurants the town has to offer, these are some of the best places to eat in Savannah we've found. Take your time to explore, but also plan ahead to snag a seat at some of those upscale dinner spots and you'll be set for your entire trip. You won't run short of options in this Southern dining paradise.

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